Following the first meeting of the Energy Efficiency Taskforce, the government announces its membership.

The members of a new task force charged with reducing the nation’s energy consumption by increasing the energy efficiency of homes and buildings have been announced. 

The new Energy Efficiency Taskforce, chaired by Minister Lord Callanan and NatWest CEO Alison Rose, aims to reduce energy consumption in the UK by 15% by 2030, compared to levels in 2021.

They bring a vast wealth of knowledge based on their unique experiences and perspectives to deliver on the government’s ambitious commitments, which will help grow the economy, create new jobs, and reduce costs for citizens.

The Energy Efficiency Taskforce was established to support a step change in reducing energy demand across the economy by accelerating the delivery of energy efficiency measures.

The Taskforce will devise a plan to help reduce the UK’s total energy demand by 15% by 2030, compared to levels in 2021, across residential and commercial buildings and industrial processes while reducing bills and assisting with inflationary pressure. This includes accelerating home insulation and boiler replacements. As the Taskforce’s work progresses, it will also consider ways to utilize the expertise of a broader range of stakeholders.

The Taskforce has convened for the first time to establish key priorities and investigate potential approaches to achieving the 15% reduction goal.

Including green finance, resolving supply chain issues, and modifying consumer behavior.

Lord Callanan stated: “We have scoured the UK’s industry to assemble a team of the brightest and most talented professionals, and I am eager to learn from the specialized knowledge that each member brings to the table.”

“We are confident that the desire of individuals and businesses to reduce energy consumption exists, but we must put in place the appropriate mechanisms to channel this desire. This necessitates prudent investment, effective engagement, and the development of the appropriate skill set, and this is precisely what the Taskforce will concentrate on.”

Alison Rose, co-chair of the Energy Efficiency Taskforce and CEO of NatWest Group, stated: “I am pleased to welcome industry, academic, and government experts to the Energy Efficiency Taskforce. Taking on the climate crisis is a team effort, and forming vital partnerships between the public and private sectors is essential to overcoming this obstacle.” 

“The Taskforce will bring together a breadth of experience from various sectors, and we will collaborate to develop concrete proposals that support the goal of reducing the UK’s total energy demand by 15% by 2030 compared to 2021 levels.”

“Our emphasis on reducing energy consumption in homes, commercial buildings, and industrial processes is crucial for reducing carbon emissions and delivering greater energy security and lower bills to individuals, families, and businesses throughout the UK.”

Working with the private sector to expand access to green financing tied to installation quality and standards.

Addressing diverse installation challenges and integrating the need for standards across markets with varying funding sources (considering recent tragedies highlighting the risks in domestic settings).

Collaborating with Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) to collect, monitor, and respond to data demonstrating progress toward the 15% demand reduction objective.

At the initial meeting of the Taskforce, these objectives will be reviewed, and key priority areas of focus will be determined, which will form the basis of a work plan.